Glow Counseling

Sex and Aging

Sex and Aging

Contrary to stereotypes, aging does not eliminate a person’s sexuality. Mid-life and elderly Americans care deeply about their sexual experiences and relationships. Not uncommonly, as a result of the aging process, men past midlife experience a reduction in sexual desire as a result of decreased levels of testosterone and sexual disorders such as erectile dysfunction and prostate problems. Men with erectile difficulties often react with feelings of failure, anxiety, depression, and loss of self-esteem. These feelings may be compounded by their partner’s disappointment or anger.

In older women, while the hormonal and physiological changes associated with menopause are factors, the predominant correlation with decreased libido, arousal, orgasm, and sexual enjoyment is relationship difficulties. Most female sexual problems are associated with anxiety, depression, and the loss of a partner. Sex therapy is useful in helping individuals and couples adjust to the various physical changes and the effects of medical treatments that come with aging.

Some Tools to Enhance Sexual Function and Expression in Older Adults:

First and foremost, communication, communication, communication.

Counseling and sex therapy.

Sexual activity in the morning when an erection is more likely.

Avoid times when your partner is stressed or tired.

Ample amount of tactile stimulation, manually or orally, before and during intercourse.

Ample use of sex-specific lubricants.

Consider prescription vaginal estrogen cream.

Positions in which vaginal tension is increased for heightened stimulation.

Trained in marriage and family counseling, I see pre-marital, married, co-habitating, and gay and lesbian (LGBT) partners for couples counseling, in my Denver, Colorado mental health practice. As a certified sex therapist, I help couples deal with sexual and mental health issues such as low sexual desire, painful sex, sexual dysfunction, or sex/porn addiction. Click here to see more on couples therapy.

GLOW (Gays and Lesbians Out and Well) is psychotherapy and counseling with a gay-affirming focus for the Denver, Colorado, LGBT community. GLOW specializes in helping Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) persons come out and grow emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. GLOW’s gay counseling is based on the premise that sexuality, creativity, and spirituality are intertwined and dependent on the affirmation of an authentic self-identity. Our work is informed by a philosophy that seeks equality and mental health and wholeness for all people. Click here to learn more about my approach to LGBT issues.

Silence about sexual issues is the great killer of relationships. It is common for people to encounter sexual problems, at any age. Women may experience arousal and orgasm difficulties, low sex drive, or pain during intercourse, while men may struggle with erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and low libido. What is uncommon is for people to speak and do something about those problems before they irreparably damage their self-esteem and relationships. To learn more about Sex Therapy options, click here.

We can talk about options for a healthier, more satisfying, and productive life. Sexual addictions or compulsive behaviors can take over your life, whether it be internet pornography and cybersex, phone sex lines,strip clubs, bath houses, bookstores, cruising spots, or any other form of anonymous sex. It leaves you feeling empty and alone. Click here to learn more.

The causes of your distress may be immediate or rooted in your history. It may be difficult to tell the difference between the source of your stress, anxiety, grief, or discomfort, and your current struggles. You may even try to correct the wrong problems. You may suppress, avoid, or even self-medicate trauma with compulsive behaviors or addiction. There is HELP and HOPE for current or past trauma, PTSD, and abuse! Call GLOW Now or click here to learn more!